Gulmarg has established itself as a favourite pick for the ultimate experience of adventure, especially in the snow season. Gulmarg is a sought-after winter destination. It has gained global recognition as a popular attraction for an adventurous getaway. It is one of those towns of Kashmir where the first snowfall of the season is experienced. As the winter progresses, the entire town of Gulmarg receives heavy snowfall. There are many winter sports available here such as skiing, snowboarding, sledging, ice-skating, etc. Skiing in Gulmarg is a must-do. With a range of snow slopes and ski resorts like Kongdoori, Apharwat Peak and Mary’s Shoulder, you can definitely come here. You have a lifetime opportunity to catch a live snowfall here and play in the snow with your family and friends. With a highly developed infrastructure, Gulmarg is buzzing with schools and rental shops, hence an easily accessible destination for such sports. Make sure to plan the trip beforehand with a well-planned personalised itinerary. Here’s a Gulmarg adventure guide where various sports along with best times are summarised. Take a look!
Top Adventures to indulge in Gulmarg:
Skiing: To begin with, Skiing is one of the top adventures to do in Gulmarg. As one of the best things to do in Gulmarg, visit the town for the thrilling sport of skiing. As the temperature goes below freezing level, the slopes start to be filled with skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. Here, the ski slopes are nestled by towering mountains and thick forests all around. The experience of Gulmarg skiing is unmatched. Experience the surge of excitement as you quickly slide down the valley’s snow-covered floor. One of the greatest places to indulge in this sport is Apharwat Peak. Here are government-run ski rental shops where you can rent ski equipment. You can learn this sport from knowledgeable trainers as well. Skiing in Gulmarg is best at Apharwat Peak. You can reach the base of a trek through a Gondola ride or can take a leisurely walk. Some other skiing resorts in Kashmir include Khilanmarg, Baba Reshi Shrine, Gulmarg Golf Course, etc. March to December is the best time for a skiing trip to Gulmarg.
Snowboarding: Next on the list of top adventures to try out in Gulmarg, snowboarding is a beginner-friendly sport. Snowboarding is a less challenging yet fun sport to try in Gulmarg. You can easily get basic lessons at nearby schools and rent gear. The sport has gained immense popularity as dedicated slopes are present for snowboarding in Kongdoori and Gulmarg Golf Course. Gulmarg invites adventure buffs of every skill level and there are facilities and infrastructure available for everyone. This snow sport is said to be one of the best things to do in Gulmarg in winter. Standing on a board and transferring through the snowy slopes of Gulmarg is quite thrilling. Different travel agencies in Srinagar offer various packages that include snowboarding at an affordable rate. Just like skiing, you can easily get snowboarding gear on rentals in Gulmarg. Make sure you are carrying avalanche safety gears as well.
Sledging: Another adventure that has gained prominence in Gulmarg among thrill-seekers is sledging. For sledging, you don’t necessarily need to go to the alpine regions. Even local places of Gulmarg with sufficient snow accumulation offer sledging. It is a fun activity where you sit on a wooden board and slide downward. Places like Khilanmarg and Baba Reshi Shrine are very popular as sledging spots in Gulmarg. The white powdery snow at these spots is perfect for a smooth downhill sledge. The activity is quite safe for children as well senior-citizens as well. It costs less than the other sports and is readily available. Go for on-spot booking to negotiate about the price. Even locals of a particular place offer this to tourists. Needless to say, December to March is the ideal time to come for such snow-activities in Gulmarg. For a better and challenging experience, you can visit alpine regions such as Kongdoori, Mary’s Shoulder, etc.
Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is a popular adventure to unleash the madness that the hill station holds. Snowmobile rides are available in summer as well as winter. However, thrill doubles when the ride is enjoyed in the snowy meadows, by the glaciers. As you drive through the snowy meadows, the snow flows all around, filling your body with a rush of adrenaline. While different resorts do offer snowmobiling, the most famous ride is from Tangmarg to Gulmarg. Covering a distance of 13 kilometres, it is one of the most unforgettable experiences. As you ride on these routes, you will not only experience a thrill in your heart, you will be captivated by the natural beauty surrounding you. Like other snow sports, the activity is accessible by both beginners and advanced riders. It may be a bit costly, especially in the peak month. The cost depends on the duration of the ride. Make sure you have put on all the safety gears to have a sense of safety and comfort.
Ice skating: Last but not list, a new addition to the top adventures of Gulmarg is ice skating. Recently introduced, you can indulge in ice skating as well in Gulmarg. It is one of the best things to do in Gulmarg in winter. You must have heard of normal skating. In the similar manner, it is done on the ice-slopes. While the activity is available in Gulmarg from December to March, January provides the optimum weather conditions for it. The heavy snowfall and below-freezing temperature are the features of Gulmarg in cold seasons and it is exactly what is needed for ice-skating. Some people even skate on the frozen lakes if properly solidified. With proper attention to the techniques, you must have high-quality skating boots for a safe and fun experience. Don’t forget the bindings, gloves, goggles, etc. Wear comfortable woollen clothes.
Best time to visit Gulmarg for winter adventurous activities:
The best time to visit Gulmarg for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and more is from December to February. In winter, the temperature level is between 0°C to -5°C. Heavy snowfall is experienced across town, creating high slopes with excellent snow conditions. The white and powdery snow is just perfect for various outdoor activities. Even many local attractions are accessible in Gulmarg during winter, offering sightseeing tours. Some unmissable ones are Drung Waterfall, Tangmarg, Baba Reshi Shrine, etc.
It is also the time for many winter festivals celebrated in Gulmarg. From the snow festival to the winter carnival, you can immerse yourself in cultural programs and competitions. When planning to come to Gulmarg in winter, make sure to pack proper clothes like thermals, sweaters, cardigans and a trench coat. Avoid normal slippers or shoes and go for high boots to walk safely on the snow.
How to reach Gulmarg?
There are many ways one can pick to reach Gulmarh from their hometown. Starting with the option of air travel. The closest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar International Airport at a distance of about 60 kilometres. Numerous flights are available from different cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Jaipur to the airport. You can book your taxis or cabs via Kashmir Taxi Services for airport transfers as well as city tours. Next on the list is a train journey. Jammu Tawi Station in Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir is the nearest one, connecting the Union Territory to the rest of the country. From the station, it is a 7-8 hours road drive from Jammu to Gulmarg covering 290 kilometres via Srinagar-Jammu Highway (NH44). Various private as well as government-owned buses operate from Srinagar to Tangmarg. Lastly, you can plan a road trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg, covering 50 kilometres in half an hour, enjoying the enroute scenery. The highway road A-1 offers excellent road connectivity.
Tips to keep in mind:
- While an adventurous journey to Gulmarg is fulfilling, taking care of various things is important.
- Choose the sport level according to your skill and don’t go overboard with it. Enjoy in your safe and comfort zone.
- Invest in premium gears like ski poles, skis, boots and snowboarding gears at rental shoes.
- When you visit the slopes, wear proper clothes that are neither too loose nor too tight. They must be snug, fit and comfortable. Wear thermals, sweaters, jackets and coats for enough layers.
- Book your resorts and hotels in advance. Book taxis and cabs in advance for airport transfer and intercity rides.
- Get your ski passes and gondola tickets available on online websites.
Conclusion: This winter, plan a thrilling trip to the most popular hill station of Kashmir. Since it is the peak season of tourism there, make sure to book everything in advance including hostels, taxis, ski passes and Gondola ride passes. Try local dishes like Rogan Josh and Kashmiri Pulao at the cosy cafes in the town. Your trip would be incomplete with a food tour in the town.
Have a memorable experience in Gulmarg!
